At first glance, Charles Bridge in Prague is just an ordinary bridge you’ll see across Europe. You won’t appreciate it if you haven’t read a bit of its history or anything about its structure. Prague skyline on both sides of the river serves as a beautiful backdrop. The experience itself will forever stay into the deepest recesses of your memory. Charles Bridge and Prague’s Old Town are probably the two best places you should explore on foot.
To beat the crowd and to watch the sunrise, I recommend an early morning stroll at Charles Bridge.
From above, this is what Charles Bridge looks like every day in the summer.
If you are on the bridge itself, it would look like this.
Without the tourists, Charles Bridge is certainly one of the most beautiful bridges in Europe.
It is a common sight to see crazy, rich Asians having their prenup photographs taken here.
Due to its heavy foot traffic, Charles Bridge is a pedestrian bridge only.
It has 16 arches, measures 516m long, and 9.5m wide.
Named after King Charles IV, the construction of this cobbled-stoned bridge started in 1357.
As you walk on it, you’ll find 30 Baroques sculptures of religious icons.
The views on both sides of the river will surely dazzle your tourist eye. 😉
Do you wanna hear an interesting myth about Charles Bridge?
Legend has it that workers added raw eggs to strengthen the bridge’s foundation. Raw eggs, really?! I might believe it if they were hard-boiled eggs! 😀 😀 😀
Both ends of the bridge have two standing towers that serve as gates. The Lesser Town Tower is on the western side, and the tall, Gothic Black Tower is on the eastern side.
Come back in the evening, and experience the romance at Charles Bridge. 😉
Hotel / Hostel in Prague
I stayed at Cosmopole Hostel in a busy area where public transport to and from the train station is just a few steps from the door. The Old Town is around 20 minutes walk, passing by some of the city’s unique architecture. The hostel is surrounded by shops and cafes that are even late at night. The rooms are quite small, but with only four people in it, you can still move around comfortably. Be aware that Prague is pretty expensive, so finding cheap accommodation can be a challenge. It’s also super touristy here, the earlier you book, the better you have the chance to get a bed space.
These hostels are in the center of the Old Town: SafeStay Prague and Hostel Homer. If you can afford, the Corinthia Hotel Prague is for you. You can book all of these hotel/hotels in Prague via Booking, TripAdvisor, HostelWorld, and Expedia.